Norfolk's own 'spudman' supports local community thanks to donations
Donations and social media have helped provide meals and resources to people in Norfolk
A Norwich businessman has been working tirelessly to assist those in need within the local community after one of his videos gained widespread attention.
Zak Bevis, who operates Zaket Potatoes on Derham Road in Norwich, has been running his food truck for 18 months.
Early in his trading journey, Zak was approached by a couple who generously donated £100 to help feed people in need, nearby.
According to Zak, the couple asked him to share a video on social media, showing where their money had gone. Zak posted a video, helping out someone in need, and the content went viral:
" It went viral, and people were asking where they could donate. That money isn't just about feeding the community , its about looking after them."
In response to the viral attention, Zak set up a GoFundMe campaign, enabling people to contribute to his cause of providing free meals and support.
Zak proudly shared that these donations have allowed him and his team to significantly touch hundreds of lives.
"There's more too us than just feeding the people" Zak said.
Since then zaks fundraising page has rasied £43,000.
Over the recent months, Zak and his staff have utilised donations ncluding funding mobility scooters for the elderly, covering heating bills, offering meals, and providing camaraderie and support to those in need.
This Bank holiday weekend Zak helped feed 50 homeless individuals, thanks to the pot of donations, who otherwise may have gone hungry.
It was also an important weekend for Zak, as he partnered up with his icon 'Spudman' (Ben Newman) who was station in Great Yarmouth over the weekend.
"It was absolutely ridiculous, a highlight of my journey so far" Zak said.
Spudman has become an internet sensation over recent years, also known for his famous jacket potato and community drive. He's been an important figure in Zaks journey, giving him advice and even lending him his trailer.
The local businessman also believes COIVD 19 had a lasting impact on society:
" everything's on the phone, there's no community spirit no more. So I want to show people a little bit of kindness goes along way,"
He says that a lot of the people he speaks to each day are struggling with addictions, but showing compassion to them has made a real difference.
"we shouldn't judge, we don't know what happened to get them there,
don't get me wrong, you've got to want to help yourself, but its being there and helping that makes a difference." Zak said.
He hopes that through sharing his mission on social media, he can encourage more people to make a difference, and share some kindness.